Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978, Las Vegas’ Springs Preserve is a 180-acre site that sits approximately three miles west of the Strip. The multifaceted attraction includes everything from museums, period buildings and an amphitheater to a botanical garden, trails and wildlife exhibits.
Springs Preserve celebrated its 10th anniversary this year by opening several new exhibits including WaterWorks and Boomtown 1905. WaterWorks offers a look at the journey water takes from an on-site pump station to the taps of residents in the Vegas Valley. The exhibit takes guests inside the Charleston Heights Pumping Station, an active production facility that’s operated by the Las Vegas Valley Water District.
The interactive Boomtown 1905 area recalls the early days when Las Vegas was a fledgling desert community. The re-created streetscape features representations of businesses that developed between 1905 and 1920, including the Arizona Club, the Majestic Theatre and the Lincoln Hotel. Groups can enjoy activities such as a Morse Code challenge at the Las Vegas Train Depot, using a vintage cash register to make change at the Las Vegas Mercantile and weighing precious metals at the First State Bank.
A variety of guided tours and special events are offered throughout the year. Annual festivals such as Mardi Gras Vegas (February), the ‘Ohana Festival (May), the Grapes & Hops Festival (September) and the Haunted Harvest (October) are popular with groups, as are the Botanical Garden Guided Walk or the Springs Preserve Mining Camp that are offered each weekend.
For more information, visit springspreserve.org or call +1.702.822.7746
Top photo: Boomtown 1905
Photo by Springs Preserve
